[ Viktor laughs at that, tilting his head from side to side like he's weighing the validity of that statement. He knows that it's probably off-putting to most, but the smell of hay reminds him of home, and the smell of metalwork reminds him of the future. Jayce was unique in that way, feeling comfortable and familiar while also full of dangerous potential—his company was as thrilling as it was soothing.

Choking on a laugh, Viktor looks down with wide eyes. ] Me? Engaged? Ah, yes, because I'm such a catch. Who wouldn't want to be betrothed to a crippled scholar who spends more time with horses than with people?